Little Daily Miracles

Music flows in you.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:13:00 +0000

Good day beloved friends!

I haven't been around for the past few days because I had NO internet at all. My modem just broke down, and I was totally isolated from the rest of the virtual world. I couldn't keep on with the May challenge, and I think I'm just gonna do a few of those posts until the end of May, since I unfortunately have no time right now.

What I really wanted to talk about today are soundtracks. Movie scores. Which I absolutely adore. No, not adore, I live for them. There is no music in the entire world which can move me as much as a SCORE can. A dramatic, powerful, emotional and energetic score.

I have fallen in love with soundtracks when I started going to the high school. I remember, once, I went with my godmother to the cinema, to watch the Pirates of the Caribbean, and for the first time, while the movie moved forward, and went on and on, I wasn't paying any attention to it, because the music just sucked me in into its vortex, and that was it - I couldn't get out of it anymore. It ran through my whole body, from my little toe to the top of my head, I was covered in goosebumps, my heart pounding and pounding... I just seem not to be able to describe that feeling, because you just can't; it's something you have to feel, you have to let it conquer you, because then, you will know what I mean.

And since that moment on, scores belong to my top favorite music genres, if not THE favorite one. But not every single soundtrack fits my taste. Like I said above, I enjoy the dramatic and bombastic ones. Those which you can find in great history or fantasy movies. Or better said, everything that was touched by Hans Zimmer. Or Alexandre Desplat.

Just click on the image, and it will lead you to the YouTube link of each song. A the bottom you also have a full list of songs that have been featured. Enjoy!

Storm - Craig Armstrong (Elizabeth: The Golden Age)

The Heart Asks Pleasure First - Michael Nyman (The Piano)

A Hero Emerges - Hans Zimmer (Man of Steel)

Heart's A Mess - Gotye (The Great Gatsby)

Autumn Leaves - Dirk Reichardt (Keinohrhasen)

Skyfall - Adele (Skyfall)

Griet's Theme - Alexandre Desplat (A Girl with a Pearl Earring)

Main Title - Danny Elfman (Corpse Bride)

Anna's Last Train - Dario Marianelli (Anna Karenina)

Long Nights - Eddie Vedder (Into the Wild)

Libera Me - Elliot Goldenthal (Interview with the Vampire)

Dumbledore's Farewell - Nicholas Hooper (Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince)

Walter's Burial - Marc Streitenfeld (Robin Hood)

I Know You Can Hear Me - Marcelo Zavros (Remember Me)

Nocturne in C-Sharp Minor - Frédéric Chopin (The Pianist)

Darcy's Letter - Dario Marianelli (Pride and Prejudice)

Mother's Journey - Yann Tiersen (Goodbye Lenin!)

Severus and Lilly - Alexandre Desplat (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II)

PS: The first and the last are my favorites. I hope you liked it.

PPS: Oh I forgot to show you an ad produced by Bruno Aveillian (he is soooo great!) for a diamond company, and the music for it was composed by Bruno Coulais. I always loved the music from it but couldn't find it anywhere. At least we can enjoy this wonderful little film.

Have a nice Wednesday.

Me in a nutshell.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sat, 18 May 2013 13:11:00 +0000

There is a lovely link up going on at Dana's blog, and it's about writing down your life, in the style of "Draw my life" videos that all YouTubers are doing right now... And since we are not YTs but bloggers, we write!

Where do I start? Well, with my birth. Which was in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on 22nd February 1991. I was born to a mother, named Nevena, who is a nurse, and a father, named Savo, who is a dentist. They have met at a coffee house where my mum used to work, have fallen in love, and have been inseparable ever since!

And then I happened, but it wasn't such a happy ending or beginning, depends at how you look at it, because i was born FOUR months too early. I weighed only 600g, and had to stay in the hospital for months after my birth, so I could gain some strength. But I was a warrior, and survived!

In this photo I am about one and a half months old, and have grown a little.

Little walk with my mom.

Beach day at the coast of Slovenia. :) Believe it or not, I remember THIS.

Unfortunately we couldn't stay in Slovenia any longer, since the Yugoslav war started, and we had to flee the country. At that beginning stage we moved more than fifteen times. All of the movings were in Serbia, since so many people didn't want to accept families who have fled the war. But anyway, we found our first home in Novi Sad, where we stayed until I was five. And then we moved to Subotica, which is the northernmost city in Serbia, because my dad has bought us a flat there, and we didn't have to share our bathroom and kitchen with five other families anymore.

My mom and Jessy behind the building where we used to live. No, it's not that yellow one in the background, unfortunately you cannot see it in this picture.

Fashionista and happily weird me.

And then, as we finally thought that we had our place where we could stay for longer time, the '99 NATO bombing came, and my dad decided to move to Austria, and try his luck as dentist there. I still remember my mother and me standing at the train platform, and looking at my father as he got smaller and smaller on the horizon while waving at us through the train window. My mum always starts to cry when she thinks about this scene because she says that I myself, have never cried as much as that day.

One of the many many times, where my dad had to leave.

But then I kind of learned to live with the fact that my dad is not with us right now, but is working for us at some better place, and I was so happy every time he visited us, that I didn't want to leave his side even for a minute! My dad has always been a big idol for me, and still is.

At some point, the time for school came, and I met so many awesome kids, which turned out to be my very best friends for next six years... And I got my doggy Jessy, whom I still have today. I couldn't be more happy about that. In Serbia, you go to the same class with same people for eight years, all the way until high school. And then you get new classes and stuff. Now, I can say that I had the best childhood ever, despite all the bad things that happened. I could go out and play, go to birthday parties of friends, and simply be a happy girl. That was really awesome.

Me in the first grade with two of my friends (I'm totally on the left, if you were wondering) ! ... and at my 9th Bday party!

Around that time, I discovered my "talent" for drawing, and I didn't stop doing it ever since. I never went to any art school whatsoever; I learned it all by myself. You can see a little timeline of my artworks here!

Where was I? Oh, yes, unfortunately, I couldn't stay with my friends like I wanted to, because I had to move to Vienna when I was twelve. My dad has settled all the necessary papers for him, and we were ready to make the transition too. And once again, I cried the whole night, because I had to leave EVERYTHING I held so dear. It was really horrible. And even to this day, I am not completely over it. It's different when you move inside your country, but I was thrown in the middle of somewhere, where I didn't know the language, people, the city, nothing!

It took me a while until I could adapt, and although I learned the language very fast, I felt like an alien for a very long time. I couldn't make any friends, especially because I turned out to be better than them in school in just a few months (schools in Serbia are much more rigorous and strict, and also much more forward when it comes to what we learn). But then a new girl came to our class, and she really wanted to help me all the time. She was also defending me when I was mocked because of my nationality and so on. We are very good friends to this day.

High school was a lot better, but still, I was a freak who could draw. I had two or three friends and that was it. Until I met Tina! You can read our little story here, which she wrote. It's so amazing!

And now... I'm in college. And still kind of a freak, but it's not that obvious. Let's say, I'm more of a lone wolf. I have a few people with whom I'm in contact with and that's it.

One thing I forgot to mention. I must say, I am very blessed to have a big family. I have a bunch of aunts, uncles, cousins and so on, and they are all from my mothers side. My mum, like, has three sisters, and had four brothers, but some of them died. Well, two. One shortly after birth, and other because of diabetes. And I remember that too, because I was at his death bed. Well, enough of sad things.

While I still lived in Serbia, I used to spend every single summer in Teslić, Bosnia. Either if it's in the town of my aunt, or on the country side where my grandparents lived. And some Christmas holidays too! It always was so fun to explore the forests, jump over stones in the rivers, and run through sun flower fields... I wish I could do that now! :)

This is one of many similar pictures that I have. And this is not even the half of my family! From left to right: aunt, aunt, aunt, cousin, cousin, me, Jessy, grandma, uncle, grandpa, then the row below, uncle, cousin, cousin, Fido staring at Jessy. Ah, I feel such joy when I look at all of them. My lovely huge family.

Me throwing myself around in the snow in grandma's fields.

... aaaaand I guess that would be it! I hope you enjoyed this little story.

Happy Saturday!

Favorite photograph of myself.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:26:00 +0000

Okay, I KNOW. I failed. I failed this challenge so so badly that I even don't know why I'm returning to it. Maybe because I feel so guilty after seeing all those other lovely blogger ladies completing it successfully. But anyway, I still want to participate so here I am!

Today, I'm presenting you a favorite photograph which shows me. I must admit, it was very hard to decide, since I have so many that I hold so dear. But I chose the last one I did. And here it is:

Where am I supposed to start when it comes to explaining this picture? Let's try with the country that it is associated with. México. Ever since I was a little girl, I watched telenovelas with my mother, because they were so damn famous back then in Serbia. They still are, but that glory has faded a little because Turkish series have the upper hand now. Anyway, I remember, every single day, after I came back from kinder garden, I sat near my mum, and we turned in to watch "Rosalinda" or many other novelas which were running. And Thalía was my first celeb idol I ever had! I used to sing and dance to her songs every day, and now, when I tune in some of them, I get those childhood flashbacks, it's amazing.

But back to the picture. This is supposed to represent me, in a tribute to one of my most favorite painters, and artists in general - Frida Kahlo. I fell in love with her work in my last year of high school, and especially since I've known my friend Patricia who is from México aswell. We spent hours and hours talking about Frida's work and life, and by every minute I got more fascinated with her. But what appealed to me the most, were the feelings that have risen up in me, while I was looking at her paintings and reading her diary entries.

Although I seem a very happy and "shiny" person, I have a LOT of dark memories, and feelings too. Well, who doesn't? And I could feel her pain and struggles that she felt, I could see myself in her artworks, and I could see a reflection of me in her words. It's incredible, how somebody, who lived so many years ago in a far far away land, with different culture and language - could feel SO close and familiar. But yet, one thing remains the same, passion, love and hope.

Favorite Quote.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Fri, 03 May 2013 22:00:00 +0000

As unlikely as it seems, I adore this man. For many people around the globe he represents something gross, scary and even annoying. I have followed his path when it comes to his art and music for years, and never ever have I become tired of it. The thing is to look beneath the surface, and dig a little deeper, and you wouldn't be disappointed in what you may find.

For me, personally, the most appealing fact or thing about this artist is his poetry or lyrics. And also his opinions in general on the world which he has expressed so many times during countless interviews. You might see it as marketing, I see it as a very intelligent and sensitive person. And I think that I don't have to explain these quotes above since they do it for themselves.

Happy Saturday y'all!

Things that make me uncomfortable.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Thu, 02 May 2013 23:12:00 +0000

Okay lovelies, I just need to point out how dumb I am! I started to participate in this awesome challenge that beautiful Jenni is hosting, and I didn't notice that every single day has its own topic! I thought that we all have to come up with our own entries! *major facepalm!*

Anyways, for the day three, I am going to start to do it right, and tell you what makes me uncomfortable. And there are waaaay too many things! So, let's go ahead and jump into everything!

1.) Water
You know, I sometimes don't dare to make a bath for myself since I am afraid of slipping and drowning. Or worse, breaking my spine and being paralyzed for the rest of my life. And then, there is open water. Endless amounts of water. And the nightmare of being in the middle of it with no ground under my feet. No no, thank you very much.

2.) My own dark thoughts.

Believe it or not, I do have them. As I said in my last entry, I don't like to talk about it here, but sometimes they are stronger than I am. In so many ways. Things that could fly around in my mind then would be, death, being buried alive, losing my loved ones, failing, being burnt alive and so on.

3.) Smelly people on the public transport.

Well, let's face it, who loves this?! Nobody! But in their defense, sometimes it's really overcrowded and hot in buses and subways, so you can't change anything about it nor escape it. But then, on the other hand, there are people who are smelly because they didn't take a shower in a month. One way or the other, I don't like it AT ALL.

4.) First dates.

Beside being nervous, I also feel very uncomfortable during the first ~~hours~~ minutes on a first date. Until the moment where you're out of that awkward zone, everything's uncomfortable! The small talk, your insecure gestures and so on. But it's also sweet in a way too.

5.) Loud chewing.

Okay, I get seizures when somebody's sitting next to me and making that loud, rude, chewing sound! No matter what they eat, anything crunchy or not, sweet or not; I am allergic to it! Just close your mouth while you eat and it will be fine. But that is not a guarantee either. Urgh.

6.) When professors stare directly at you during lectures.

.. unless it's a very handsome and hot professor. But we don't have such at our university. Or I didn't meet him. But in usual situations, it's really weird, because I just don't know if I should keep the eye contact or look away. If I look away will he think that I'm not interested in what he is talking about, and if I do, he will surely think that I'm a psycho. So what's the solution?!

7.) Weird small talks.
See number four. I mean, i hate it when I get on the subway, and some random guy starts commenting my music taste, because he oh-so-suddenly saw the cover artwork of the song I was just listening too. And then I just don't know what to say! "Oh, yes, this song is so sad, it reminds me of my long forgotten love?!" Um, no. Or, when you're at the supermarket, and the lovely lady behind the counter HAS to discuss with you why you took these tampons and not some other ones. And all that in front of a huge line. It just makes me wanna die. =.='

8.) When Jessy behaves a little "strange".
I mean we all have our neeeeeeeds. We do. And so do our pets. But the awkwardness is so unbearable when I have friends or some family over, and he all of a sudden starts to do "certain" things to my pillows or even worse, their legs! Oh dear Lord, NO! :D

So, for now that would be it! What does make you really uncomfortable?

Good night!

Why I don't share certain things.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Thu, 02 May 2013 16:33:00 +0000

Good day friends!

I hope you're having a lovely Thursday! It's just one day left until the weekend, so we almost made it! Woohoo!

Anyways, today's entry is a little different from what I do usually, but I have gotten a few questions on Twitter, and also via e-mail which all go in the way of something like this: "Why don't you talk about this or that? We would love to know!", or "I wish I knew more about this and that when it comes to you.", and so on. So, I decided to give you some explanations why I don't share certain things on the blog.

1.) Relationships and feelings.

I must say, I really respect everyone who can do this freely. I have been following the emotional paths of so many friends here in the blogger world, and it's really amazing how every one of them has its own fairytale alike story and how happy everyone is. Most of the time they all end up being engaged and married, which is so great! And I like to read about it all. It's like a good love novel or a romantic comedy movie (which are my favs!). But then, on the other hand when I think about myself, I just can't see it happen. Well, let's say that I tried a few times, but then removed the entries because I felt way too vulnerable by keeping them online for EVERYONE to read. The last one I did on this issue was a little different, since the story is a little longer and much more complicated. You can read it here; it's just the thought that everyone could hop on the blog and KNOW IT. Because what is on the internet, also stays there.

And then there are all those relationships which come and go, and I just don't find that it is worth mentioning. And don't get me wrong, it's not that I have many of those! :D I just didn't meet that ONE guy who would be worth unveiling and showing here. And when that day comes, you will be informed. I am just not that lucky to have such a connection and bond with somebody. Not yet. I suppose.

2.) Political statements and views.

As a Serbian girl, of course I do have my opinion on the political situation of my home country and the world. But the thing is (I really like to say that often :)), I just don't think that it's anyone's business and also that this blog is not made for that. I created this little space to share GOOD, BRIGHT and HAPPY things that I love and enjoy doing. This world is full of dark and twisty things, so I don't have to make some more. :)

3.) Personal problems of ANY kind.

Once again, this blog is a colorful space so no dark energy and thoughts. Simple as that.

4.) Fashion and looks.

As much as I like clothes and shopping, it still is not one of my favorite things to do. I don't like making fashion posts simply because I think that waaaaayyy too many bloggers and youtubers are doing it. And no offense to those who enjoy making fashion blogs, but I just think that it has become a little "mainstream". And the other reason for this is that I don't care as much about makeup because I never ever use it. Except if I feel the urge to try something out in the bathroom, but I never dare to get out with it on my face. Weird I know. :)

5.) College.

Well, I do mention it from time to time. But it just doesn't feel right for me to brag about how many projects I have to finish, how good my models have become, how I get no sleep because I have so many exams coming up aaaand so on. So I don't talk about it. If I end up being a famous (LOOOOOL) and successful architect, then I'll make an EXTRA blog about it. Until then, no bragging about my future profession. :D

So, I think that sums it up. I hope I could answer some of your doubts and questions and if not, I'm sorry.

Now have a lovely Thursday and see you soon!

Faith and traditions.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:16:00 +0000

Ever since I was a little girl, I remember that one tradition that our family has maintained for centuries, and it has its presence in most of orthodox nations and beliefs even today. Every family, has its patron saint, and ours is the Saint Lazarus of Bethany, which is always on a Saturday one week before the Easter. Our saint is a “protector of our home”, and it is passed down from father to son, generation after generation. For that occasion families gather and make a feast (which in Serbian means "slava") in honor of their patron, and those feasts can last up to three days, but the church says that it's correctly for it to be one day. This is one of the greatest characteristics of the national and religious views of our country, and is one of the most important days of the year for Serbian families. Slava is actually the celebration of the spiritual birthday of the Serbian nation.

The feast itself cannot be compared to anything else in the world because it's really unique and special. Main elements of the slava is the icon of our patron, a lighted candle which is the reminder that the Christ is "the light in this world"; wheat, which can be prepared in different ways, or it can be grown in a little bowl, which represents the death and resurrection of Christ. And then, the two main things are the ceremonial, round loaf of bread and the red wine, which are standing for "Christ as the bread of life", and his blood. What is also important to mention, that the bread is not being cut with a knife, but it's broken by hand and each guest is being given a piece.

When it comes to specialities that are being served, it really depends on each family, but also if the date of the feast is in the period of the fasting or not. Ours for example, is in the middle of the Great Lent, so we are not allowed to serve any meat, eggs nor milk products. But if you think that there is nothing left to be put on the table, oh, you're so wrong! :) My mother for example has the reputation to make the best feasts, and that hers are even better than some "meaty" ones! :)

The day starts with the family getting up early and making everything ready until the guests arrive. The tradition says that the most of them should arrive before noon, but it's not obligatory. When the guest enters the home, he has to greet the householder, or the host by saying "Happy Slava!". Once everyone is there, the fest is being opened by saying the prayers, drinking three rounds of rakija and eating the prepared wheat that I talked about above. So, after that, the atmosphere is a little more comfortable and everyone is just having some nice time with their family and closest friends.

My family (including me) is religious but we are not radical. I have my beliefs but I don't talk about them at all, since it's only between me and that guy above. I often find shelter in the prayers, and I love to visit the church when I feel like I need to and not when I am told to do, except on the big dates, like Christmas or Easter liturgies. I like my religion and the tradition that have been born through it, because I have such lovely memories from my childhood and I cannot await to see what the future is saving up for me.

I finally got some sunshine.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:57:00 +0000

Yesterday I took a long and such a wonderful walk through the gardens of the Laxenburg's castle with my godmother.Those gardens are really big, which means you can walk the whole day and you still won't see all of it. It's amazing. The weather was perfect, with 20°c and a little breeze. We walked through the rows of trees, around a little lake and of course the castle. I took photos from time to time, because we were so deep in our conversations that I have completely forgotten about it. So, here are a few of them, so enjoy! Oh, and happy start of the week!

See you soon!

Last month in instagrams.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 20:22:00 +0000

This last month has been a huge roller coaster for me, especially on the emotional field. And you have probably noticed by the last entry, that I got more open when it comes to all of that "personal" stuff. I am all alone again, but at least I have more time now to concentrate on my other duties like college and that secret project I have been talking about. Just be a liiiittle more patient, and you won't be disappointed. At least I hope you won't. Anyways, here are the instagrams! Oh and be sure to follow me there to get them all! Just click HERREE please.

{Oh, and the order of the photos goes from most recent to the older ones.}

I went to Serbia. These have been shot on the way there, and back, somewhere in Hungary.

A few impressions of my hometown.

I spent more time with my mom, and also did a little nail tutorial.

Obsessed a "little" over New York City. God, I really want to live there one day!

Had an amazing cup of coffee in a traditional Vienna coffee house, and I also bought myself some Beethoven sheet music. And I'm still on the first two pages!

My dad took me to Czech Republic, which was really awesome! Oh, and I had my first ice cream already although there was still so much snow. I didn't mind.

I started some projects!

And I got addicted to some amazing tunes! You really need to check these two albums out! It's reaaally amazing!

****

.. So that would be it. I guess. As I already said you can still go to my insta page and check all of the photos out.

Have a nice day and see you soooon!

PS: I'm sure that you already know, but the Google Friend Connect will be gone for good soon, so I deleted the widget, and now you can follow me through the links I have provided on the sidebar. Thank you so much for supporting me all this time! Love you!

Her heart never mended.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 23:03:00 +0000

It was a sunny afternoon, more than a decade ago, where a higher force simply decided to turn one girl's life over. Up to the minute before, all she could think about was which exams she had to pass next, and what to wear to school next day. And then suddenly, all of that had no importance at all anymore. That honey blond hair, and deep blue eyes which were looking at her from above, were all she could think about from that moment on. Oh, and that grey sweater he seemed to wear every single day. No teacher could catch her attention anymore, especially if he was distracting her by throwing small stones at the window she was sitting next to.

She ditched the first twenty-or-something dates, since she was so nervous, she couldn't stand on her own feet, but as the excuses started to run out, she finally collected all her courage and stepped out in the pouring rain and as her steps became faster and faster, she saw blurred pictures passing her by and heard something beating hard like drums, which was her nervous and excited heart.

The moment she saw him hiding from the heavy rain drops under the school's entrance roof, she stopped and gasped for air. And from that moment on, one lovely fairytale began...

... which did not last long, since she had to move to a foreign country, foreign city and begin a new life. She was ripped out of her, oh so well known, environment, had to leave all that she loved and held so dear. Including the honey blonde boy.

The first few months felt like in a delirium, like it was not real, like anytime soon the very ugly nightmare will end, and everything will be like it was, but that never happened. She adjusted, learned everything she had to, became successful, was admired, and all moments of happiness lasted for a very short time.

Hours, days, months, and then even years and years passed her by, but that certain hole in her chest never seemed to heal completely. There were a few other boys, who tried to bring her the stars from the night sky, but all of it was a huge lie, one she kept telling herself, that everything is perfect, that she is happy, but how many times did she feel disgusted and guilty for lying to them, for rising their hopes up, and in the end breaking it all into thousand pieces? How many nights did she spend sobbing into her pillow, how many times did the scent of wet grass bring memories back and tears to her eyes? Countless. And still rising.

With the growing popularity of the internet, social networks, she got in touch with him again, they became good friends. They really did. He listened to her problems and worries, and so did she to his. She knew almost all of his love stories, how he fell in love so many times, and out if it too, and day by day she felt more and more stupid for still living in the old days. For hoping. That maybe one day, that same old force might bring it all back, that maybe she finally could be enough, that he still had a little of that love left for her. She became the second choice, and she never minded, she always supported him in everything that she could, but never has she ever revealed her little secret. And now she does. To the entire world. And she doesn't care.

Two nights ago, he held her tight, tight in her arms, she felt that familiar scent, the voice next to her ear, the soft touch of his hands stroking her cheeks... Oh she couldn't trust her senses, she couldn't believe that that vivid dream was so real, and although it lasted so short, and although the next day was like it never happened, her soul and heart were full of joy, of flashbacks which couldn't stop reappearing in front of her eyes, while driving back to this foreign country; but also strenghtening the old pain and tearing her apart all over again.

But in the end, all this suffering that will follow... It was completely worth those two hours. And doesn't everyone say that you have to find the happiness in the smallest things? I do.

Lovesong by Adele on Grooveshark

Taking a break.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 20:58:00 +0000

Good evening friends!

It has been such a stressful month, especially the last week, and now that I realized that it won't change soon, I decided to step away from blogging for a while and concentrate 110% on my studies. I have to admit that I have neglected architecture a little bit ever since the new college year began, and I feel sorry and guilty for that. But please, don't misunderstand me, it is NOT because of this blog, there are many factors which played a bigger role in this decision than blogging. And don't worry, I won't be gone for such a long time, you'll see me around here sooner than you'll expect!

I am also fully aware that some of you will leave me because of this decision, but that is how this blogging universe works. Unfortunately. Anyways, I hope March will be good to you, and see you very soon!

Lately on Instagram - snowy edition.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 13:27:00 +0000

Good day to you all!

Let me say one thing, I am more than aware of neglecting this blog A LOT, but I have been so busy with studying, working (yap, I work in a book store on Saturdays now) and going forward with my secret project (which will be unveiled soon!). So I hope that you understand my absence.

Anyways, when I woke up yesterday morning I've been surprised with a complete winter wonderland in front of my window! And it was still snowing! I loved it. And then on the way to work I snapped a few pictures of it, which you can see below. Beautiful right?! :)

Feel free to follow me on instagram! Oh, and have a wonderful Sunday!

Fabric tape nail art tutorial!

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 23:48:00 +0000

Good evening dear friends and welcome to the second DIY tutorial I ever did here! The first one is almost a whole year away, and it's finally time for a new one, don't you think?

Since I am a part-time nail polish addict (which means that I have my times when I adore it and also when I cannot stand it, weird I know), I thought it would be a nice idea to present you a "new" way of nail art I "discovered". I was looking all over the pinterest and tumblr if there is anyone who had the same idea as I did, but somehow I couldn't find anything exactly the same. There are many people who do this with gel and UV lamps, but that is not what I had in mind.

Oh, and do I need to mention that this is extremely simple and that you won't need more than five minutes?

With that being clear, let's go ahead and jump into everything!

First thing that you will need is a clear nail polish for your base (yeah I know that the bottle says TOP COAT but I use it for the base too) and a fabric tape of your choice. By the way, to clear all misunderstandings your tape has to be self-adhesive, very important! I purchased mine on daily like's web page, but they are available all over ebay and etsy too. So, no worries!

Now that you have your necessities, the next thing that you will have to do is to cut out the designs that you want. Like shown in the picture below.

After you have done that, turn around each of your tape pieces and draw the contours of your nail bed. It does not have to be perfect, but the more accurate you do it, the better it will look in the end. And don't worry if you mess up something, you have plenty of tape left, don't you? :)

Now cut out along the lines that you have drawn. Oh, and don't bother yourself with the length of the tape, we will get to that in the end.

And now the fun part! The advantage of fabric tape is that it's a lot more flexible than any other nail art sticker. You don't have to worry if it sticks together or anything like that because it's pretty easy to undo any mistake. The tape is also a little elastic so if you need a little more width or length you can pull a little and it will fit. After you have stuck on your tape, it's time to cut out the rest at the top of your nail which you don't need anymore!

Be careful while cutting because (and this is the only disadvantage of fabric tape) it's a little tricky to file the fabric. But it's possible! So try to follow the line of your nail, and everything will be perfect. For better results use small nail scissors.

You also don't need any top coat. If you use any tape which is a little silky it will have it's own shine. Mat tapes look also awesome, if you ask me. So, if you have done everything correctly (but I don't see any space for not doing it right) it should look something like this!

So what do you think? Have you ever done anything similar? Would you give it a try?

Until next time!

Becoming a vegetarian.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 21:41:00 +0000

It has been running through my mind for quite some time now, before I decided to take this step and, become a vegetarian. I have a long history when it comes to this issue, since I already tried once, but couldn't keep it up, since I was not doing it the right way.

My best friend Tina is the greatest idol and example, how you can live healthy while skipping on meat. She didn't eat any ever since she was twelve, and I really admire her for that. She told me that it was really easy for her to switch her eating habits. And while having that in mind I tried about three years ago myself to go vegetarian, but I ended with huge health problems a few months afterwards, which only proves that it's different for all of us.

First thing was - anemia. And then unbearable headaches, dizziness and nausea. I didn't search any medical help, but instead was convinced by my family that it is all because I avoid meat. And that is the way how I started eating it again. To be honest, I enjoy the taste of it, and some of my favorite meals consist of meat (Satay Chicken Noodels or Tuna Mayo Wasabi Onigiri!), but then, I always think to myself that there must be a way to enjoy food WITHOUT having a dead animal on your plate. I know this sounded harsh, but that is only the way I see it. And I do NOT judge any meat eaters. Just to be clear.

Another problem is also, our traditions. In Serbia, people eat a LOT of meat, and there is not a single holiday imaginable without sarma, pecenica, and other meaty meals. So if I went to them and told them how I don't eat any meat, they would look at me like I was from another planet! Which is pretty weird but it is how it is. So for me, that is another problem. How to go to Bosnia or Serbia and ask my grandmother to make me something without meat?! Almost impossible! But for all of you who are from there, you understand me for sure.

Okay, so where is this entry going? Well, to my goal to become a true vegetarian and succeed this time, without almost ending in an hospital. The main reason why I am doing all this, is the way I feel about animals. My love for them is way bigger than any desire for delicious food that they are a part of. My willpower is also strong enough to endure this transition time, not only to change my eating plan but my whole life, for the better. Let's see where all of this will go.

Oh, one more thing - while I've been searching through DeviantArt for some nice inspirational photos to put here, I couldn't help myself but notice that many people think of vegetarians as of some hippie freaks or what so ever. Of course, there are many weird people, who would try to lecture you on animal rights and animal torture as long as they hear that you are a meat eater, but not ALL of them are like that! The majority is nice, and supportive but they won't try to convert you to vegetarianism.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Are you a vegetarian, and how did you decide to become one? I'd love to know what you think!

Sleep well and good night!

Photo credit: popoks.

Collections | Owls.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 21:54:00 +0000

Did I ever mention how obsessed I am when it comes to owls? No? Well, then I think it is finally time! I have always felt attracted to them, even though I don't pay so much attention to birds in general. The ways they move, fly; ...is something I could watch for hours. There are so many things that I own which are related to owls in any way: jewlery, pencils, notebooks, purses and so on... And today, I though it would be a nice idea to share this little passion of mine with you. Enjoy the cute photos! (+ a video at the end!)

Happy Friday lovelies! Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

February Desktop Freebie! Yay!

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sun, 03 Feb 2013 00:18:00 +0000

It is in the middle of the night over here, and I am so over-exhausted since I have been studying for more than thirteen hours today for one of the biggest exams in this term (and thanks God, on Wednesday it will be all over!); BUT! ... I really, really, really wanted to get this desktop freebie done for you, since I missed the last one. :(

Anyways, I played A LOT with PS this time, so the wallpapers turned out a little different than those ones you saw in the past. But on the other hand, it still has that touch of mine even though it is pretty minimalistic (from my point of view). The theme is LOVE of course, since Valentine's Day is getting closer and I really love the final result! You can see the whole wallpapers when you download them, and I honestly hope that you will enjoy it! And tell me what you think!

DOWNLOAAAAD!

Now I'm off to get some sleep since I have to study tomorrow too. *sigh*

Nighty night!

PS: I almost forgot something! Now you have included some wallpapers for your iPhones (4s+5)!

Hello February!

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:34:00 +0000

Good evening friends!

Do you still remember me? I've been partially here, since I have so MUCH to study for, and simply cannot find any time to blog. Which makes me really sad. But oh well, on Wednesday this term will be over for me, so I will give some more time to my little blog.

I don't know if you noticed, but it's FEBRUARY! Definitely my month. Firstly because I was born on 22nd of it, and secondly because I always loved it. I don't know exactly why, but I have always felt such a huge excitement when it arrived. And this time it's no different.

The only thing that I don't like about February is the fact that it reminds me of getting older. This year I will turn 22. But I hope that a new year will be good to me. :)

Oh, and feel free to check out my lovely friends and supporters of this month! See you soon!

New artwork: Pavle Jovanovic.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 16:09:00 +0000

Paja Jovanović was and still is one of Serbia's greatest painters ever born. He was a greatly talented, virtuous painter, nationally and internationally very successful, rich, praised and adored, even though later in his life his art was criticized and dismissed by some of the 20th century art critics as outdated, dry, staged, detached from real life and a sterile example of the Academic Realism. Whatever the point of view of the scholarly art establishment, the fact is that his art was loved by the people. It has been said that, during a certain period, there was almost no Serbian home that did not have a reproduction on the wall of one of Jovanović's famous pictures.

In his long and prolific life, Pavle Jovanović created a large number of paintings, and although he also gained popularity as the remarkable portraitist, immortalizing many kings and queens, the politicians, the wealthy people and the artists, he is after all best known for his genre-compositions and works with the historical content. Although classified as the works of the Academic Realism, these depictions of the important moments from the national history, and the representations of the folkways, give more or less idealized, almost romantic, view of the history and the reality of life in the Balkans during the second part of the 19th century. Never the less, these images had a great appeal to the people of his time, and rooted themselves deeply within the national psyche. In a way they represented the powerful symbols of iconic, almost epic proportions, offering the guidelines to the national spirit that was, in those days, seeking its visual manifestation.

The most famous painting of his. The migration of the Serbs.

Mihajlo Pupin.

Preparations of the bride.

Muni, his wife, around 1900.

The artist in his Munich studio, 1889.

I remember back then, when I was a little girl, my father used to take me on his lap, open a huge, heavy book, and tell me various imaginary stories with pointing with his finger at paintings by Pavle Jovanović. Those stories of course, were not true, but I had so many fairytales in my head afterwards... I imagined the wedding of that bride, or how Serbs escaped the war over the mountains and so on... And I think that was the time when my passion of classic art started to grow. So, here it is, a drawing of Pavle "Paja" Jovanović. I sincerely hope that you will enjoy it.

Parts of the upper text were borrowed from here.

Lately on Instagram

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 10:15:00 +0000

1.) Portrait of my deceased professor Jormakka that I drew into the condolence book, which we made here at the college.
2.) Are these called donuts? Because google translated it that way for me. In German it's called "krapfen".

3.) Amalienbad. And this is where I go swimming every day now. Isn't it beautiful?
4.) Snowy park near our flat. I really love it!
5.) The very first bread I made!
6.) This is the Sretensky Monastery in Moscow, and listened to the concert of its choir, so I posted this image. It's said that they are the best one in the whole world!
7.) More snow in Vienna.
8.) Jessy enjoying the winter wonderland.

Have a nice Tuesday!

Last days of 2012. Part two.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 23:38:00 +0000

Good evening there! ... or should I say night, because here is long past midnight?

And there is no better time for me to share the second part in this what-have-I-been-up-to-in-the-last-days-of-2012 series. As I read through the last one, I noticed that I've missed one tiny part. And that is the sightseeing which we made BEFORE visiting the Museum of Natural History. But oh well, I'll show you that now.

Like I said, we made a little walk around most famous buildings, even went up the towers of Stephansdom, padded by the Parliament, one Christmas Market... It was so nice, but so cold and WET! This was the only time rain annoyed me.

Next day was reserved for Schönbrunn. Firstly we made a huge tour inside (but unfortunately it was not allowed to take any pictures) and then we headed to a big journey through the gardens that surround the castle. It is pretty big, and we couldn't see it all, since it was so cold and foggy, but at least I could get some nice "frozen forest" pictures, which you can see below. I visited this place about hundred times, but I always love to return. Especially in winter. I like everything more in winter.

I hope you enjoyed this little post! See you soon!

Snowy Wonderland.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 20:15:00 +0000

Good evening my friends!

Ah, I have to confess something; I've been so unorganized in the past few days, and that is one of the reasons why I didn't post anything here, and believe me, I honestly feel very bad (and guilty) because of it. I feel like this January won't ever end! I have an exam after another, and slowly it is starting to exhaust me. But once it is over, I'll have the whole February free. And then, there is a secret project I've been working on since December, and I hope I'll show it to you very soon. Just be a liiiiittle more patient.

But today, today I allowed myself a day free from all the worries and stress; and I spent it with Tina once again. We ate our onigiris like we do every time and then took a walk along the Ring Street. It was so fun to play in the snow in the Burggarten, and honestly, I felt like I was a little girl again. And it was all Tina's fault, since she started all that running around, laughing like crazy and jumping in the snow. It was so awesome!!

I felt like shooting some instant photos today, and so I did. It is a nice change because you have to choose your motifs very wisely, and not like with a DSLR camera where you can just delete the pictures that you don't like. The pictures are not as clear and sharp like the digital ones, but certainly there is some flair to them, which makes them so special.

Unfortunately, the day didn't end well for me, since I found out that my favorite professor to date, Kari Jormakka, has died while asleep on Sunday night due to an heart attack. You can read more what I said here.

Happy Tuesday to you!

Last days of 2012. Part one.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 23:55:00 +0000

Good evening!

Remember this post, and how I promised you a series of photos from my Vienna sightseeing tour with my dearest one? Well, I finally found time to bring that promise to reality!

They (Stefan and his friends) arrived on a Saturday night before Christmas. They stayed at a hostel near my place, so we didn't have to lose any time on meeting and then going for our Vienna journeys.

The first day (Sunday) I took them around a little, through the center of the city, most famous garden and around a few buildings. One of them was a Museum of Natural History, and they wished to go inside, so I accompanied them.

I visited this one a few years (four or five, if I'm not wrong) while I was still in High School and I still remember how amazed I was by it. Especially by the architecture.

This time, it was not any different. I could spend there hours and hours, walking through the rooms, enjoying the beautiful artworks and all kind of wonders that nature has created on this planet. We spent there the whole day, and were dead tired afterwards.

I was really surprised that photographing was allowed! In almost every other museum that I went to, this was not the case. So of course, I had to take a picture here and there. So here they are! Enjoy!

The last picture shows my cousin Bojan being a little silly in front of a huge Moose which you actually cannot see. :)

I think it's also more than obvious that I have a little faible for owls. I like everything that is connected to them. The way they live, behave, think and of course look.

There will be more photos soon! Just be patient with me, since I'm in the middle of exam period, so when that is completed I'll blog more often. :)

See you soon! Sleep well!

Summing up 2012.

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 13:11:00 +0000

It is really amazing how FAST a year can fly by! And I cannot believe that I have this little blog for over a year now. Simply amazing. If you are a newer reader, this is a perfect post for you to catch up on what was going on around here in 2012. Enjoy!

January

Reliving my childhood memories in my grandmother's house over the Christmas holidays. That was really wonderful. I enjoy going back there as often as I can, which you surely noticed if you followed me along.

I also showed you some amazing photographs of snowy Vienna! There is nothing more romantic and dreamy as anything covered in snow. Even if it is a small village or a big city, the snow just turns it into a big fairytale! And Vienna is no different. You got to love it!

February

Showed you another drawing video. This one was pretty fun, because it' s the first one I did with my (then) new camera. Some people asked me if it is a tutorial, and no it is not. But if you can learn something from it, it's great!

March

My very first DIY tutorial! I was so excited while making this one! Unfortunately, it is the only one I made to date, but I hope there will be some more in the future.

An excursion to Kloster Neuburg. That Saturday was almost unreal. I have been there already with my school a few years before, but this time, with my family was even more beautiful. I remember walking through its gardens and mazes, staying in the main church for almost an hour and enjoying the wonderful architecture and artworks. That Saturday was so well spent.

... and my first wide format polaroids! I remember how amazed I was as the camera and the films arrived! I have been taking classic polaroids before, but this Fujifilm ones are really the best ones for me by so far. The colors are so vivid and clear, with that famous vintage touch. If you don't have one, get it!

April

I started a one sketch a day journal (which I later unfortunately have lost). Ah, I was so so sad as this happened. This was my second one which I lost, and I was so enthusiastic to draw one for the whole year, but it just didn't work out. MEH.

Some places I would love to live. A little inspirational collection of some wonderful living ideas. I'm just so into shabby chic, and romantic living. Everything old fashioned!

More polaroids! More Vienna! And another traveling to Bosnia (this one is worth reading!).

May

How I decided to study architecture. The decision has been hard, and difficult since I have so many interests and hobbies, but the love for art has won!

Endless green in this historic city. This is something like the Central Park of Vienna. The difference is only that we have so many other parks here. But I think this one is the biggest. I feel like I'm some place else whenever I go there. It's good when you want to escape the huge mess in the big city.

What's in my bag? I was never of those people who constantly do such posts but from time to time it's fun.

Beetle collection! One word: OBSESSION!

A little post about my beautiful mother for "Mother's Day".

June

My beloved camera collection! It was so amazing to show you my little babies when it comes to the photography tools. I just find it a little sad that I don't have any time to use them all constantly, but they won't run away, right?

Our little trip to Göttweig Abbey. Ah, I still remember this like it was yesterday! A warm (better said VERY hot) summer day, and such beautiful architecture and nature surrounding it! I hope to go there once again in the future.

One of the daily discoveries through Vienna I made. It's really interesting how you discover the best things when you actually don't want to.

My first desktop freebie!

And of course, the amazement as I found out that there will be an Anna Karenina movie.

July

Random piano troubles. I still write those from time to time, since it's really fun to complain about everything that goes on my nerves while I play. Or anything else piano related.

Many details of my kingdom. I love to reread all those posts about my room afterwards, because then I clearly see how it changed (and still does) over the time.

A pool day! That one was pretty amazing. It's on top of a 30 floor building, and that was quite an experience! I'm not such a summer/pool/beach/tanning person (which can be noticed how porcelain white I am), but this day was nice. Maybe because I spent it with my lovely cousin Neda.

A photoshoot where I dared to do something different. This one was pretty challenging since, well, I have some insecurity issues about my body and so on. But I was more than happy with the result.

... and some not so known facts about me!

August

I spent the whole August in Bosnia, and what amazing month it was! I just wish it would have lasted longer... But like everything that is beautiful, it was way to short. We had beautiful sunsets over the hill top, visited a beautiful monastery, I also met a cute little bambi!

September

September was the month where I came back to reality. Unfortunately. That is the worst thing that can happen to a dreamer. Urgh. I really tried to enjoy the last moments of my vacation, but since the end was so near, it just made me nervous. And then, back in Vienna, we had some rainy days, we visited all kinds of places, I had an identity crisis (well, who ever didn't?) and the highlight of the month was the beautiful letter my very best and most awesome friend Tina wrote about me!

October

Even though it was October, and the college started, I still traveled. One weekend I went to my hometown, and then on the way back I stayed for a day in Budapest. In some aspects I think this metropolis is more beautiful than Vienna itself. Since it wasn't bombed in WWII, almost all buildings are still standing. I just love that old and kind of "forgotten" feeling about Budapest. Oh, I also made a nice letters collection. :)

November

This month is time where you slowly start to feel that Christmas magic. Not to its fullest, but step by step it sneaks in. And then around mid of the month, the Christmas markets open, and there you go! Sometimes it doesn't feel right because everything is still in autumn colors. And since in USA it's Thanksgiving in November, I also made a little "What I am thankful for" post.

December

My December was totally marked with the arrival of my sweetheart at end of the month. And of course with all the Christmas harmony which now was in it's full shape. And then, the second best thing was the Anna Karenina movie! As you already know, I ADORE everything that has anything with Russian literature. I made a little review about the movie, which also was on the front page of Hellocotton. But what would be a December without snow....

***

And how was your year two thousand and twelve?

Currently...

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 18:18:00 +0000

LOVING: everything around me. Since I've been gone for almost two weeks, it is nice to be back in Vienna again. This city is like second home to me, so I am slowly starting to be happy about my return. And then there is some music I have recently discovered for myself, which are all some pieces from classic music. After a stressful day at the college, it feels really good to work while some soft melodies are played in the background.

HATING: the distance. Seriously, I read so many love stories all over the internet and about happy distance relationships, and I really wonder how everyone can take it so easily. Mine is not that far at all (650km), when you consider that there are people who live on two different continents and still are capable to maintain such a relationship. The problem with me is that I really, really miss my dear one, and sometimes it's so bad that my chest hurts and I can barely breathe! Oh yes, I hate the distance. But what keeps me going strong is the thought of us being together in the future for every single day. One day, those days will come.

READING: nothing. Exactly, nothing. I've been such a bad reader in 2012, and one of my wishes for this new year is to read more. I know, I know, shame on meeee!

EATING: All kind of leftovers from Christmas. Don't get worried, our orthodox Christmas was on January the 8th! So there is still plenty of food in the house.

EXCITED: for some little changes that will happen soon. I'll start swimming tomorrow just to keep myself active and (of course) lose some weight. And then there is the super secret project I have been already talking about, which I will reveal very soon! Just be sure to check here often!

So what are you doing currently? See you soon!

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Aleksandra) — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 01:14:00 +0000

I'm wishing everyone a blessed and merry New Year!